New Zealand Government has reiterated that military commander Frank Bainimarama should tow the line and not assume a political role, said New Zealand's Trade and Defense Minister Phil Goff.

According to Friday's report of The Fijilive, a Suva-based news service, Goff said his country will wait in anticipation for a Supreme Court interpretation of the role of the Fiji Military Forces as stipulated in the Constitution.

Goff, who is visiting Fiji, noted Thursday the army has no role in the running of the government.

"I believe the military must abide by the Government. That's how it happens in NZ, Australia, United Kingdom and all the democracies in the world and off the constitutionally that's the appropriate role for Fiji," said Goff.

"I understand that there is a case going to the Supreme Court that will clarify that. We will welcome that clarification and the assistance that it may give in determining the proper relationship between the two concerned parties in Fiji," said Goff.

He added New Zealand would not interfere in the affairs between the Fiji Government and the army.

He also dismissed reports that New Zealand would provide an expatriate to replace Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama as army commander.

He said there were no discussions at all about providing anyone to the Fiji army in the way it was suggested.

Commodore Bainimarama had earlier claimed a New Zealander was going to takeover his post.

Source: Xinhua